Natural or man made?

[Spatia73]

I found this rock a few years ago and it was suggested on the other page that I try to get an answer here. It is a really cool rock. I have always wondered if I maybe found some sort of artifact? The shape doesn't look natural to me. There is a curve to it and the tapering just looks like someone did it. It s very comfortable to hold and there is the weird edge on what I think is a handle of sorts. Maybe it just formed this way over the years? I wish i could remember exactly where I found it. It was either Pennsylvania or upstate New York. I'm hoping someone here can lead me in the right direction.

 

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[old digger]

Welcome to tnet!

I do not believe your item in question is an artifact. It looks like a naturally odd looking stone that has been extensively weathered by water erosion.

 

[Spatia73]

That's pretty amazing if it just weathered this way. Do you mind telling me how you can tell the difference? It has so many odd features. I'd very much like to learn more about how to tell. I love rocks for some reason. My students think I'm crazy for collecting interesting ones and one of my favorite read aloud is "everybody needs a rock".

 

[old digger]

Well, it is from many years of experience looking for artifacts, and examining what to look for in tell-tail signs that a stone has been altered by man for use as a tool or weapon. You would be surprised at how nature and erosion can fool the eye of the beholder. As I tell my granddaughter it doesn't hurt to ask what or if this is an artifact. Eventually she will understand what to look for. Always ask for different opinions, it doesn't hurt. In the long run you will know.

 

[Tdog]

I agree that it is natural. No evidence of alteration by human hands. Welcome.

 

[dognose]

Concur - natural.

I do not see any shaping indicators such as flaking or peck marks on the item.

 

[The Grim Reaper]

I agree. That stone is natural and shows no signs of human alteration.

Check this link out. This is on this site.

http://www.treasurenet.com/forums/north-american-indian-artifacts/631631-hardstone-peck-marks.html